Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo |
In a tragic turn of events, at least 13 people were killed during an annual New Yam festival in Nibo, Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State, on Sunday. The festival was disrupted by suspected cultists who stormed a bar near the Oye Nwochichi Market, spraying bullets and killing eight people instantly before moving to another location, adding more casualties. This latest act of terror is part of an ongoing wave of violence gripping the state.
The killings occurred just a stone's throw from Governor Chukwuma Soludo's residence, marking a bold and disturbing act of violence that has left the community in shock. Nodu-Okpuno, another nearby area, also witnessed killings when three people were gunned down by hoodlums. This string of killings highlights the alarming rise in cult-related violence and other criminal activities in Anambra State.
Since Easter, over 20 people have been killed in clashes between rival cult groups in Awka and its surrounding areas. Residents have voiced their growing fears, especially since these communities are located close to the Governor’s Lodge and the Anambra State Police Command headquarters, yet the criminals continue their operations unabated.
The state, once proud of its title as ‘The Light of the Nation,’ now faces a grim reality as insecurity grows. Kidnappings, murders, and destruction of property have become almost routine. Despite ongoing efforts by security agencies, the violence persists, particularly in border communities and rural areas, where the attacks have crippled local economies and disrupted daily life.
Recent incidents include the kidnapping of sports journalists traveling through Ihiala LGA, where three people were killed. This marked another disturbing trend in Anambra, where gunmen, believed to be linked to secessionist movements, have terrorized locals. In recent weeks, kidnappings have surged, targeting government officials, business people, and even religious leaders, with ransoms being paid out regularly.
Security groups such as the South East Security Forum have identified camps in various parts of Anambra where these criminals operate from, yet law enforcement has struggled to bring the situation under control. Residents and leaders are calling for a complete overhaul of the security apparatus, demanding better intelligence and collaboration with local communities to end the menace.
Governor Soludo, upon taking office in 2022, prioritized security and called for dialogue with the agitators. However, more than two years later, these criminal activities continue, casting doubt on the effectiveness of the government’s strategies.
The insecurity gripping Anambra and neighboring Imo state remains severe, leaving residents fearful and frustrated as gunmen continue to attack at will, despite being near critical security installations.
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